Former Orlando City midfielder Antonio Nocerino signs with Benevento Calcio

Former Orlando City midfielder Antonio Nocerino (23) signed celebrates after scoring a goal during the 2017 season. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel)

Former Orlando City midfielder Antonio Nocerino has found a new home in Italy.

The Lions opted not to pick up the option on Nocerino’s contract after the 2017 season and he had a long break before signing July 6 with Serie B club Benevento Calcio, an Italian side near his hometown Naples.

Nocerino, who competed on the Italian national team, enjoyed his greatest success with Milan from 2011-16, scoring 12 goals during 74 appearances.

The 33-year-old shared a picture of himself training with his new team on Instagram, adding the hashtag #newchallenge.

Nocerino scored one goal during 52 appearances with Orlando City from 2016-17. He went through a bumpy adjustment to MLS before finding his footing and developing into a team leader who mentored younger teammates.